Employability and Occupational Alignment of College of Arts and Sciences Graduates of Samar State University

2026-01-15T07:14:29+00:00

Higher education institutions are increasingly expected to demonstrate the employability and labor market relevance of their graduates. This study assessed the employability, occupational relevance, and early career outcomes of graduates from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) of Samar State University, covering cohorts from 2018 to 2021. Using a descriptive quantitative research design, data were collected from 485 graduates of the BS Information Technology, BS Information System, BS Psychology, and BS Statistics programs through a structured survey adapted from the Commission on Higher Education Graduate Tracer Study. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation were employed to analyze employment status, duration of job search, occupational distribution based on the Philippine Standard Occupational Classification, industry sector placement, initial earnings, and reasons for unemployment. Results indicated generally favorable employability outcomes, particularly among BS Statistics and BS Information Technology graduates, although variations across programs and cohorts were observed. While many graduates were employed in highly relevant professional and technical occupations, instances of occupational mismatch and underemployment persisted, especially among BS Information System graduates. Initial earnings were largely modest, reflecting entry-level employment and regional labor market conditions. Unemployment was primarily attributed to limited job opportunities, lack of work experience, and personal circumstances. The findings underscore the need for continuous curriculum enhancement, strengthened academe–industry linkages, and improved career development services to support effective school-to-work transitions and sustained graduate employability.

Graduate Employability and Program Impact of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management in a Rural Campus Context

2026-01-15T07:13:54+00:00

The tourism and hospitality sector is becoming increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving, particularly in rural and regional areas where tourism is essential for economic development. This tracer study examines the employability, competencies, and industry relevance of Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) graduates from Cebu Normal University Balamban Campus. The research evaluates employment outcomes, alignment between job roles and degree, perceived competencies, and employer feedback to assess the effectiveness of the BSTM program in preparing graduates for the workforce. A descriptive mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing quantitative data from 116 BSTM graduates (2013–2024) collected through a tracer study questionnaire, and qualitative data from open-ended responses by graduates and selected employers. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were conducted. The majority of graduates obtained permanent employment, often soon after graduation, and are employed in both tourism-related and non-tourism sectors, indicating diverse career trajectories. Both graduates and employers reported strong professional competence, communication, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork. Nevertheless, deficiencies in digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and foreign language proficiency were identified, highlighting areas for curriculum enhancement. The findings indicate that the BSTM program supports graduate employability and industry readiness, although continuous curriculum development is necessary. Recommendations include strengthening digital skills, expanding entrepreneurship education, enhancing industry partnerships, and improving career placement support to maintain alignment with industry needs and to promote sustainable tourism development and regional growth.

Journal of Academic Research

Employability and Occupational Alignment of College of Arts and Sciences Graduates of Samar State University

Graduate Employability and Program Impact of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management in a Rural Campus Context